Indulge in the perfect harmony of flavors and textures with our Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad. This delightful dish combines the freshness of romaine lettuce, the savory goodness of rotisserie chicken, the crunch of homemade croutons, the burst of flavor from tomatoes, and the richness of fresh grated and shaved Parmesan, all enveloped in an easy homemade Caesar Salad Dressing. Whether you’re looking for a light meal option for hot summer days or a refreshing side dish for your next gathering, this recipe is sure to please your palate.
Ingredients for Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad
- 8 oz pasta (such as penne or fusilli)
- 1 head romaine lettuce, chopped
- 1 cup rotisserie chicken, shredded
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup fresh grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup shaved Parmesan cheese
- Homemade croutons (see recipe below)
- Caesar Salad Dressing (see recipe below)
Directions for Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside.
- In a large bowl, combine the romaine lettuce, shredded rotisserie chicken, cherry tomatoes, grated Parmesan cheese, and cooked pasta.
- Add the Caesar Salad Dressing to the bowl and toss until everything is well coated.
- Top with shaved Parmesan cheese and homemade croutons.
- Serve immediately or chill in the refrigerator for a few hours before serving.
Homemade Croutons Recipe
- 4 slices bread, cut into cubes
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, toss the bread cubes with olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
- Spread the bread cubes in a single layer on a baking sheet.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy. Stir halfway through baking for even crispiness.
Caesar Salad Dressing Recipe
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1/2 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
- In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, grated Parmesan cheese, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper until smooth.
Kitchen Equipment Needed
- Large pot for cooking pasta
- Colander for draining pasta
- Large mixing bowl
- Baking sheet for making croutons
- Whisk for mixing dressing
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The salad may become a bit soggy as it sits, so it’s best enjoyed fresh.
Food and Drink Pairings
Pair this Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad with a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a light beer to complement its flavors. For a non-alcoholic option, try a sparkling water with a splash of lemon or lime.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use store-bought croutons instead of making them at home?
Yes, you can certainly use store-bought croutons if you’re short on time. However, homemade croutons add a nice, fresh crunch to the salad.
Can I make the dressing ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the Caesar Salad Dressing ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to a week. Just give it a good stir before using it on the salad.
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! Feel free to use your favorite pasta shape for this recipe. Just keep in mind that different shapes may affect the texture of the salad slightly.
Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?
Yes, you can easily make a vegetarian version of this recipe by omitting the chicken. You can also add some extra veggies like bell peppers or cucumbers for added freshness.
Who would enjoy this Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad?
This Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad is perfect for anyone looking for a light and refreshing meal option, especially during the hot summer months. It’s also great for gatherings and potlucks as it can be made ahead of time and chilled until ready to serve.